What is Neighborhood Watch?

Initially begun as a program of neighbors watching other neighbors’ property during times when the occupant is away, in Joliet and many other cities across the country, it has become an established program with recognized signs and activities. The program is based on the fact that a police officer may not recognize a stranger in your yard, but your neighbors most likely will.  In Joliet, it is a crime prevention program that enlists the active participation of residents in cooperation with law enforcement.

How Does Neighborhood Watch Work?

The program works by encouraging neighbors to get to know each other and work together. They are all trained on how to recognize and report suspicious activities in their neighborhoods as well as implement crime prevention techniques such as home security.

If You See Something Suspicious

1. Write down the description of any suspicious person

2. Get the make, model, color and license number of strange vehicles

3. Call the police and the owner of the property immediately

Going On Vacation: Things to Consider…

Leave a key and the following information with a trusted friend or neighbor: where you are going; how you can be reached in case of emergency; when you expect to return; if anybody will be at your home (gardener, repairman); introduce any house sitter.

Don’t Wait to Be Asked!

If you know your neighbor is away, and you see an obvious invitation to a burglar, correct it. Close the open garage door and remove the accumulation of newspapers from the doorstep. Why not be friendly?  Keep an eye on strangers in your neighborhood. The unauthorized candy seller or the teenager selling newspaper subscriptions may use an unanswered doorbell as the opportunity to enter an unsecured home.  The person taking a short cut through your backyard may have broken into your neighbor’s home. Don’t assume someone else has called…CALL THE POLICE IMMEDIATELY.  Write down license numbers and descriptions of strange vehicles parked at your neighbor’s house.

How to Develop the Program (if not currently in existence in your area)

Talk to your neighbors to determine their interest and willingness to attend a Neighborhood Watch function. Ask about convenient times to schedule your functions. Be sure to mention that Neighborhood Watch does not ask that anyone take any personal risk to prevent crime, and that Neighborhood watch leaves the responsibility for apprehending criminals with the Police Department.  If you are interested in starting a Neighborhood Watch Program in your neighborhood, contact the Joliet Police Department Crime Prevention Officer John Hanke at 815-724-3124.